China Coast Guard Appears to Use Wing Loong II Drone Near Taiwan
Images released by the China Coast Guard appear to show a Wing Loong II unmanned aerial vehicle operating in the vicinity of Taiwan during the Justice Mission-2025 drills, marking what may be the first public deployment of this system by a coast guard force.
Published visuals from December 30 show the medium altitude long endurance UAV, also called the GJ-2, in a coast guard context. The imagery identifies the platform but does not offer clear details on its exact flight profile or mission role.
First Coast Guard Use of a Military-Class UAV
According to reports, this instance represents the earliest public linkage of the Wing Loong II with the China Coast Guard following its entry into CCG service in March 2025. The UAV is a turboprop MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) system developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. It has long-range communications and can carry sensors or stores for surveillance or strike roles.
Strategic and Operational Context
The images emerged amid Justice Mission-2025, a large Chinese military exercise involving joint naval, air, ground, and maritime forces around Taiwan. Official releases described the drills as focused on readiness, blockades, and joint operations.
If confirmed, the coast guard’s use of the Wing Loong II suggests a push to embed higher-end aerial reconnaissance and response capabilities into paramilitary maritime operations. The platform’s longer endurance and sensor suite could extend coverage beyond what manned aircraft or patrol vessels provide.
What This Means for Regional Security
The possible deployment aligns with broader trends in Chinese unmanned aviation growth, including expanded drone missions near Taiwan and other regional waters. Recent reporting on Chinese drone activity near the island demonstrates increased UAV presence as part of cross-straits pressure.
Analysts will watch for flight track data or independent verification to determine whether this instance reflects routine patrol, a limited trial, or a broader shift in China Coast Guard operations and capabilities.
